The Medieval Church of Taxiarches in Kalyvia, Karystos

The Church of the Taxiarches is one of the most important religious monuments in the Karystia region. It stands in the village of Kalyvia, around 3.5 km north-northwest of Karystos, on a green hillside overlooking the Karystos plain, the bay, and the slopes of Mount Ochi.

medieval church of taxiarches in the village of kalyvia near karystos town on evia island — The medieval church of Taxiarches

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The church dates to the Byzantine period and is generally placed around AD 1200. Owing to its historical and architectural importance, it was designated an ancient monument in 1966. Architecturally, it is a domed cross-in-square church with a cross-vaulted narthex, distinguished by its elaborate carved stone decoration.

The church is also unusual because it is a dikklisi, a double church. An internal doorway on the southern side leads into a second chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas, while the interior preserves numerous Byzantine frescoes.

Entrance to the courtyard of the Medieval Church of Taxiarches in Kalyvia near Karystos — The entrance to the church’s yard

Time has inevitably taken its toll on the monument. After years of planning and administrative procedures, the Greek Ministry of Culture approved a major restoration project in May 2020, with the works carried out under the supervision of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Evia. Even so, conservation challenges remain, and further maintenance is still needed to safeguard one of southern Evia’s most significant Byzantine churches.

How to get there

The church is reached via a narrow paved road that climbs uphill from the village of Kalyvia, about 3.5 km north-northwest of Karystos. The final approach is straightforward by car, and there is space to park near the church.

The hilltop location rewards the short drive with panoramic views over the Karystos plain, Karystos Bay, and Mount Ochi. If you have more time, consider combining your visit with the nearby Chapel of the Holy Trinity, the surrounding walking trails, or the medieval Tower of Chartzani, all within a short drive.

Expansive view of Karystos Bay from the medieval church of taxiarches in kalyvia — View of Karystos Bay from the church

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Accommodation in Karystos

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